The F-35 Has A Case Of Long COVID
Digest
This episode of Aviation Week's Check 6 podcast delves into the ongoing challenges facing the Lockheed Martin F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) report highlights delays in the delivery of the Technology Refresh 3 (TR3) and Block 4 modernization, with the latter facing cascading issues related to engine, software, and radar development. These delays have significant implications for both US and international customers, with some European nations expressing concerns about their reliance on the F-35 for air defense. The podcast also discusses the impact of these delays on the delivery of F-16s to Ukraine, potentially prolonging the conflict. The episode further explores the contrasting perspectives on the F-35 program, with Bill Sweetman, a renowned aviation expert, arguing that the program has been a strategic failure due to its cost overruns, schedule delays, and impact on US Air Force capabilities. The podcast concludes with a discussion on the importance of flying test beds for future fighter programs, highlighting the lessons learned from the F-35 program.
Outlines
Introduction
This Chapter introduces the topic of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program and its current status, highlighting the program's $2 trillion cost and its controversial reputation.
GAO Report and F-35 Delays
This Chapter focuses on the latest GAO report, which details the delays in the delivery of the TR3 and Block 4 modernization for the F-35. The report highlights issues with engine, software, and radar development, leading to a potential two-year delay for the TR3 capability.
International Implications of F-35 Delays
This Chapter explores the impact of the F-35 delays on international customers, particularly in Europe. The delays are causing concerns for nations relying on the F-35 for air defense, as they are receiving aircraft with limited capabilities and facing delays in the delivery of essential weapons systems.
US Congressional Response and Future of the F-35
This Chapter examines the US Congress's response to the F-35 delays and the potential impact on the program's future. The House Armed Services Committee has proposed limiting F-35 deliveries starting in 2025, unless certain measures are taken to address the program's issues. The podcast also discusses the importance of flying test beds for future fighter programs, highlighting the lessons learned from the F-35 program.
Keywords
F-35 Joint Strike Fighter
The F-35 Joint Strike Fighter is a family of single-seat, single-engine, all-weather stealth multirole combat aircraft designed for ground attack, reconnaissance, and air defense. It is the most expensive weapons system in history, with a projected cost of over $2 trillion over its service life. The F-35 is operated by the United States Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps, as well as by several allied nations.
Technology Refresh 3 (TR3)
The Technology Refresh 3 (TR3) is a major upgrade for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, which includes a new integrated core processor, a modern supercomputer that enhances the aircraft's capabilities. The TR3 is a critical component of the Block 4 modernization program.
Block 4 Modernization
The Block 4 Modernization is a comprehensive upgrade for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, which includes new capabilities such as a new radar, a more powerful electronic warfare system, and new weapons. The Block 4 modernization is intended to enhance the F-35's capabilities in contested airspace and against advanced adversaries.
Government Accountability Office (GAO)
The Government Accountability Office (GAO) is an independent agency of the United States Congress that provides auditing, evaluation, and investigative services to Congress. The GAO plays a critical role in overseeing government programs and ensuring accountability.
Lockheed Martin
Lockheed Martin is a global aerospace, defense, security, and advanced technologies company. It is the primary contractor for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program.
Pratt & Whitney
Pratt & Whitney is an American aerospace manufacturer that produces aircraft engines, including the F135 engine that powers the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter.
Bill Sweetman
Bill Sweetman is a renowned aviation expert and author who has written extensively on military aviation. He is known for his critical analysis of the F-35 program.
F-16 Fighting Falcon
The F-16 Fighting Falcon is a single-engine, multirole fighter aircraft that has been in service with the United States Air Force and numerous allied nations since the 1970s. The F-16 is being replaced by the F-35 in many air forces.
Ukraine
Ukraine is a country in Eastern Europe that is currently engaged in a war with Russia. The war has had a significant impact on the global security environment and has led to increased demand for military aircraft, including the F-35.
NATO
NATO, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, is a military alliance of North American and European countries. NATO members have pledged to defend each other against attack. The F-35 is a key component of NATO's air defense capabilities.
Q&A
What are the main challenges facing the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program?
The F-35 program is facing significant delays in the delivery of the Technology Refresh 3 (TR3) and Block 4 modernization, due to issues with engine, software, and radar development. These delays have cascading effects on the program's schedule and cost, impacting both US and international customers.
How are international customers affected by the F-35 delays?
International customers are facing concerns about their reliance on the F-35 for air defense, as they are receiving aircraft with limited capabilities and facing delays in the delivery of essential weapons systems. Some European nations are particularly worried about their ability to defend against advanced adversaries in the absence of the full Block 4 capabilities.
What is the US Congress's response to the F-35 delays?
The House Armed Services Committee has proposed limiting F-35 deliveries starting in 2025, unless certain measures are taken to address the program's issues. This proposal highlights the growing frustration with the program's delays and the pressure on Lockheed Martin to deliver on its promises.
What are the implications of the F-35 delays for Ukraine?
The delays in the F-35 program could potentially impact the delivery of F-16s to Ukraine, as some European nations are relying on the F-35 to replace their F-16 fleets. This could prolong the conflict in Ukraine and hinder its ability to defend itself against Russian aggression.
What are the contrasting perspectives on the F-35 program?
While some argue that the F-35 program is a strategic success for the US and Lockheed Martin, others, like Bill Sweetman, believe it has been a strategic failure due to its cost overruns, schedule delays, and impact on US Air Force capabilities.
What lessons can be learned from the F-35 program for future fighter programs?
The F-35 program highlights the importance of flying test beds for future fighter programs, as they provide a realistic environment for testing and certifying new technologies and software. This approach can help to mitigate risks and avoid costly delays in the development and deployment of new aircraft.
Show Notes
Listen in as Aviation Week editors Robert Wall, Steve Trimble and Tony Osborne discuss the GAO's recent report on the F-35 and explain what's hampering the now $2 trillion program.
Table of contents
United States
